In our first lecture, Gregg Hurwitz and Dr. Andy Martin delve into the art of storytelling, exploring its mythological roots, archetypal structures, and the intimate relationship between writer and reader. They discuss the importance of pursuing one's passions, learning from failure, and drawing inspiration from personal experiences when crafting compelling narratives. Hurwitz shares insights into his creative process, the development of his iconic character from Orphan X, and the delicate balance between adhering to genre conventions and subverting them to create something unique.

In lecture two, Gregg gives us insight into the craft of writing novels and screenplays, discussing the importance of taking oneself seriously as a writer, excavating beneath the surface to understand characters' motivations, and allowing for collaboration and adaptation when working in different mediums. Our instructors emphasize the need to maximize the unique strengths of each storytelling format and to respect the audience's sophistication while avoiding pandering or propaganda.

In lecture three, we explore the concept of mimesis in the novel, exploring how writers strive to create a sense of reality while still engaging readers through carefully crafted narratives. The discussion touches on the importance of research, character development, and the balance between realism and storytelling, emphasizing the need for writers to immerse themselves in the worlds they create while maintaining the freedom to shape their stories.